Yahoo Sport 
Liverpool player ratings as U21s suffer harsh EFL Trophy lesson
Liverpool under-21s suffered a difficult evening as they fell to defeat in their EFL Trophy group opener at Crewe Alexandra. Dominic Corness scored an early penalty to level the scores but a young Reds side were soundly thumped 5-1.
The result continues the club's tough experience in the competition, with Liverpool now having lost 16 of 17 games played since first entering in 2019/20.
And here's how the ECHO rated the Liverpool players at the Mornflake Stadium.
No chance with any of the Crewe goals on his return to the club where he spent last season on loan. Some solid takes when he could and good save from Long first half.
Terence Miles 6
Kept busy defensively at right-back and noticeable Crewe targeted his far post with a succession of dead-ball deliveries in the first half.
Carter Pinnington 6
Tough job in trying to cope with the constant aerial threat of the home side but didn't shirk his task.
Amara Nallo 5
Suffered a nightmare first half in which he was responsible for Crewe's second goal and played a part in the concession of the third. Slightly better after break. Subbed.
James Norris 6
Time spent on loan at this level evident with a quietly composed showing. Attempted to get Liverpool moving forward second half.
Dominic Corness 6
Scored one penalty but then missed another second half. Left a lot to do in trying to pick up succession of second balls from direct Crewe attacks.
Tommy Pilling 7
Was busy in possession and made the most of space that opened up behind the Crewe defence. Good pass helped earn second penalty. Lively showing.
Tom Hill 6
Some decent touches first half and wide with one shot after a strong run, but appeared to be harshly adjudged to have conceded penalty.
Michael Laffey 7
Won the penalty when fouled by Connolly after intercepting a wayward backpass and pressed well out of position wide right.
Keyrol Figueroa 5
The central striker, had shot saved during opening moments but peripheral after that and struggled to hold up play, which contributed to Crewe fifth. Big learning curve. Subbed.
Kyle Kelly 6
Playing on the left, created Figueroa chance early on and won penalty second half but lacked decisiveness in dealing with ball for Crewe third.
Trent Kone-Doherty (for Figueroa 75) 6
Not much opportunity to show his pace.
Lee Jonas (for Nallo 75) 6
More welcome minutes as he builds match sharpness after injury.
